Infrastructure a Sound Investment During Downturn

EDMONTON, CANADA - The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by recent infrastructure spending announced by federal, provincial and territorial governments because of the positive effect it could have on stimulating economic growth and expanding important trade partnerships for Edmonton.

Over $1 billion in infrastructure spending for Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut was recently announced to fund transit projects in Edmonton, Calgary, and Yellowknife, and for water and wastewater projects across Alberta, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.

“Making investments in infrastructure during this period of economic uncertainty makes sense,” said Janet Riopel, President & CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “In the short term, it will provide much needed employment and construction activity. In the long term, counter-cyclical spending represents a valuable opportunity to build the infrastructure we need to facilitate trade, ensuring Canada and Alberta’s prosperity.”

The Edmonton Chamber has regularly advocated responsible investment in major infrastructure projects to ensure our people, products and services can get access to new markets. As a member of the Edmonton Northern Partnership, the Edmonton Chamber advocates expanding northern trade relationships and developing the necessary infrastructure to unlock the economic potential of the entire region.

The infrastructure funding is part of a national $120-billion public infrastructure plan with details on additional infrastructure projects to be announced soon, according to the federal government.

“In the next phase of spending, the Chamber would hope to see infrastructure investments that more directly contribute to expanding trade and market opportunities across the region, nationally and globally,” said Riopel.

Media contact:

Sheila Keenan, Communications and Outreach Coordinator
Cell: 780-446-6264

To view the original article, click on the source link below.